We had not one - but two nights of Shining Stars! They were wonderfully fun-filled evenings with very talented pianists, violinists, a cellist, saxophone player, singers, dancers, rockers, gymnasts, jump-ropers, a horse vaulter, a couple of clowns and even Katy Perry made an appearance. Thank you to all the students for enthusiastically sharing their talents. Thank you to all the parents for facilitating their efforts and for cheering them on.

Stephanie Scott and I truly enjoyed coordinating the first Talent Show at Cascade Ridge and we look forward to seeing the show for years to come. None of this would have been possible without a dedicated community of volunteers as that of Cascade Ridge – you always step up. We would like to make special mention of the following folks: Rajeev Goel (our third hand), Paul Mayfield (Awesome Emcee), Stephen Rozmiarek (and Grandpa), Ganga Pingili (noise meter), Pamela Franklin (baked goods extraordinaire), Laura Fortner & Diana Verrue (thanks for setting up and allowing me shower time), Brian Lamure (Videotaper), Jeff Selbig (Star Backdrop), Molly Baker, Jaycee Cooper, Sangeeta Peri, Susan Sansing, Kristi Linicome, Kim Streamer, Jasmine Lin, Julie Gall, Jaycee Cooper and all who stepped up to clean up in record time.

To the following students for continuing the tradition and lending a hand: Anjali Goel & Sophie Selbig (Curtain Girls), Macy Scott (Check-In), Jacqui Verrue (Stage Hand), Ashley Snow, Megha Pingili & Kate Selbig (Introductions).

Finally, a special mention to Ms. Laura & Coyote Club for helping with set-up; Mr. Dunham for the sound system; Mardi for answering questions; and to Klahanie QFC, Regal Cinemas and the Baking Committee for helping us defray costs of this event.

Baked goods brought in $91.50. So the total cost of the Talent Show for both nights was less than $250 (not a typo). That’s quite a deal for 91 students, 63 acts and 2 days…there are never enough creative outlets. Here’s to more shining stars.